Landlord Showings: Tenant Rights & Entry Rules in Alberta

If you are a tenant in Alberta and your landlord wants to show your rental unit to prospective tenants or buyers, you have rights about notice, entry times, privacy, and quiet enjoyment. This guide explains the rules for showings, what to do if your landlord enters without proper notice, and how to document the issue or apply to the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS).

When Can a Landlord Show a Rental Unit in Alberta?

A landlord can enter your rental unit to show it to potential tenants or buyers, but the entry must follow the legal guidelines described by the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS). The main law governing this process is the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA).¹

• Written notice: Your landlord must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit for a showing.
• Entry times: Showings must take place between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm unless you agree to another time.
• Reason for entry: The entry must have a legitimate purpose, such as showing the rental to prospective tenants or purchasers.

The notice gives you time to prepare, secure valuables, and plan for your privacy and safety.

Your Right to Privacy and Quiet Enjoyment

Alberta tenants have the right to “quiet enjoyment.” This means you should be able to live in your home without unnecessary disturbance. Showings must be reasonable, not excessive, and must not interfere with your normal use of the property.

If your landlord enters too frequently or at inappropriate times, the entries may interfere with your rights. Start by communicating your concerns in writing. If the problem continues, you can consider applying to the RTDRS or using the official application process.

Notice Requirements for Showings

A notice to enter for a showing must:

• Be in writing. A text message or email can qualify.
• Be delivered at least 24 hours before the entry.
• State the date, time, and reason for entry, such as a showing to prospective tenants or buyers.

You are not required to be home during the showing, but you have the right to be present if you wish.

Can a Landlord Show the Unit Without Notice?

Except in an emergency, a landlord cannot enter your unit for a showing without proper written notice. Emergencies include situations such as fire, flood, or urgent repairs.

If your landlord enters without notice or permission, other than in an emergency, document what happened. Keep copies of notices, messages, and other communication about the entry.

Problems With Frequent or Disruptive Showings?

There is no specific limit in the law on how many times a landlord can show your place each week. However, showings must be reasonable and must not interfere with your right to quiet enjoyment. If showings become excessive or disruptive, keep a log and communicate your concerns in writing.

You may also wish to review Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for further strategies. For a broader overview of landlord and tenant duties under Alberta law, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Official Forms & Steps to Address a Privacy Violation

If your landlord is not respecting the entry rules for showings, you can:

• Communicate in writing: Explain your concerns to your landlord and keep a copy of the message.
• Apply to the RTDRS if the issue continues: Use the RTDRS Application Form and include details and supporting evidence.

Form Example: Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) Application Form

• When to use: If your landlord repeatedly enters without proper notice or otherwise violates the entry requirements.
• How it is used: Fill out the RTDRS Application Form online or download it. Submit details of the issue and supporting evidence, such as missing notices or text and email documentation.
• Official source: Submit application to RTDRS

Tips for Tenants During Showings

• Remove or secure valuables before scheduled showings.
• Request in writing that your landlord accompany all visitors or realtors.
• Record all communications about showings, including notices and your responses.
• Do not sign away your rights. Ensure changes are in writing and do not allow verbal agreements to reduce the notice time.

For more guidance, you can always Browse apartments for rent in Canada and compare tenant experiences.

Related Tenant Rights in Alberta

For a detailed summary of tenant and landlord rights in your province, review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Alberta.

1. Can my landlord enter my unit without permission to show it?
   Generally, no. Your landlord must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering for a showing, except in an emergency.
2. How many times can my landlord show my place each week?
   There is no specific limit in the law, but showings must be reasonable and must not interfere with your right to quiet enjoyment. Frequent, disruptive showings could be challenged.
3. What should I do if my landlord shows the unit without notice or when I have said it is not a good time?
   Document the incident, express your concerns in writing to your landlord, and if the issue continues, you may apply to the RTDRS.
4. Do I have to let my landlord in for showings if I feel unsafe?
   You must not unreasonably refuse a lawful, noticed showing, but you can ask that your landlord attend and explain specific safety concerns. If there are valid safety risks, raise them promptly.
5. What happens if I refuse entry for a scheduled showing?
   If you refuse lawful entry after proper notice, this could be a breach of your lease and give your landlord grounds for dispute. Explain your reasons and seek a compromise if possible.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Landlords in Alberta must give at least 24 hours’ written notice before showing your home to prospective tenants or buyers.
• Showings must take place between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm unless you agree otherwise.
• You have the right to reasonable privacy and quiet enjoyment of your unit.
• If your rights are not respected, document the situation, communicate in writing, and apply to the RTDRS if necessary.

Keeping notices, messages, and a showing log can help you explain what happened if a dispute arises.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Alberta Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
• Alberta Residential Tenancies Act – Official Guide
• Alberta Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner: oipc.ab.ca
• Alberta Tenants’ Association: albertatenants.com

1. Residential Tenancies Act (Alberta): Official government guide
2. Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS): RTDRS official site